Airbus (OTC: EADSY) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Kawasaki Heavy Industries to explore developing a Japanese anti-submarine warfare variant of the Eurodrone, a large long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft system currently under development in Europe.

Under the agreement, the two companies will analyze opportunities to work on a maritime version of the U950 Eurodrone tailored for Japan, including possible configurations, integration of Japanese sensors and weapons systems, and potential workshare for Japanese industry during production and sustainment.

Japan has held observer status in the Eurodrone program since 2023. The Eurodrone is a four-nation program involving Germany, France, Italy, and Spain, led by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation. Its first flight is scheduled for 2029. India also holds observer status in the program.

The aircraft is designed to carry a mission payload of up to 2.3 tonnes, excluding fuel, and can remain airborne for up to 40 hours. Its mission capabilities include airborne intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance, early warning, signals intelligence, maritime patrol, and anti-submarine warfare, including the ability to carry sonobuoys and torpedoes.

The next step involves discussions between Airbus and Kawasaki Heavy Industries on design, development, and commercialization options for a potential Japanese maritime variant, according to the press release statement.